Two Navy Aviators Dead After Jet Crash

The U.S. Navy said two aviators died after an F-18 Super Hornet fighter jet crashed off the coast of Key West on Wednesday.

"We are sad to report both aviators have passed away," U.S. Naval Air Force Atlantic Comdr. Dave Hecht said in a statement late Wednesday.

The aviators were identified Thursday night as Lt. Caleb King and Lt. Cmdr. Brice Johnson. The circumstances of their deaths have not yet been released.

“As warfighters they excelled in combat, as officers they exemplified the values our Navy holds dear. I was extremely proud to have led, flown, and served with both Brice and Caleb," U.S. Navy Cmdr. Kevin Robb said in a statement, adding the men were "exceptional aviators and living models of what honor, courage and commitment really mean."

The jet was part of Virginia-based Strike Fighter Squadron 213, according to the U.S. Navy. The crew ejected.

U.S. Naval Air Forces said the jet crashed as it was on its final approach to the base at about 4:30 p.m.

"Rescue crews recovered both aviators from the water; they were taken by ambulance to Lower Keys Medical Center," U.S. Naval Air Forces wrote on Twitter previously. "The jet was on a training flight; cause under investigation."